Pattern 1885 cavalry sword scabbard (metal)

Pattern 1885 cavalry sword scabbard. Some cavalry regiments of the British Army which fought during the early stages of the Boer War (1899-1902) were armed with the Patterns of 1890 and 1899. The outbreak of war necessitated the issue of all weapons, current and obsolete, held in store. This sword was originally issued to the 3rd Light Dragoons, then the Royal Horse Artillery and finally, in South Africa, to the Natal Volunteer units. Due to the Boers' excellent long-range sniping, the bright finish of British swords quickly proved disadvantageous and most hilts and scabbards were painted khaki in the field to minimise glare.